Knicks' Lee calls out Baldwin over half-court shot
As the New York Knicks lumber toward another playoff-free spring, their players aren't in the mood for shenanigans. Courtney Lee, for one, took exception to Memphis rookie Wade Baldwin IV's meaningless half-court 3-pointer at the end of the Grizzlies' 101-88 win Friday.
Related: Grizzlies cover spread with meaningless yet exciting half-court trey
"For him to do that, what are you doing it for, bro?" Lee said, according to the New York Post's Marc Berman. "We'll see them next year - if he gets in the game. He might be in the D-League next year when we play them - you never know."
In the code of competition, one can see where Lee's anger is coming from, but it's difficult to conclude Baldwin had any malicious intent. NBA players frequently toss the ball up at the basket as the horn sounds, and in this case the rookie appeared surprised it went in.
Of course, the other factor at play is the Grizzlies - like many NBA teams - have promotions that reward fans when the team scores 100 points. On this night, Baldwin's trey meant free chicken for ticket holders.
Lee scoffed at that.
"I guess he was hungry man, shooting that shot," Lee said.
"Nobody's getting hyped for you bro," Lee added about Baldwin. "You just shot the ball because you wanted to score 100 points. Nobody’s going to remember you for that shot."
Lee, a former Grizzlies player, added that he was told veterans Mike Conley and Vince Carter would talk to the rookie.
"I'll let them handle it," Lee said.